" A thrilling beginning sets the tone for this wonderfully researched and written new historical fantasy set in the Mediterranean Bronze Age, as goatherd Hylas is on the run for his life, an arrow in his arm, and utter terror and bewilderment in his heart. Why are the terrifying ashy-colored Crows bent on killing him, after killing his dog and shooting him? Where is his little sister? As an Outsider, he can't get help from the village, and so steals provisions and seeks shelter in a tomb, only to find it is already occupied by a dying man who gives him a bronze knife and tells him to go to the Sea. More confused than ever, Hylas flees. Danger and intrigue pursue him, and he must survive by his considerable wits; he is an endearing and admirable protagonist whom readers will cheer for. Paver must have unlimited funds at her disposal, because she travels to the ends of the earth to gather material and the experiences that enable her to write so convincingly and to offer such immediacy to the reader. Borderline junior high, but acceptable for 6th graders. "
— Phoebe, 2/2/2014